Grip System for Weightlifting Equipment

ABSTRACT

A grip system for barbells includes a slidable grip assembly that translates along the barbell shaft, optional medial and lateral stoppers that restrict the lateral movement of the grip assembly, and optional shaft sleeves that attach around the barbell shaft to provide a surface across which the grip assemblies can easily slide. The grip assemblies include a hand grip attached to a tubular base and a slide segment attached to an inner surface of the tubular base. The tubular base and the slide segment surround the barbell shaft when positioned on the shaft. The slide segment can be a friction reducing surface or have a plurality of bearings that facilitate longitudinal motion but restrict rotational motion of the grip assemblies. Additional optional configurations of the grip assembly include multiple grip assembly sections held together with fasteners that allow the grip assemblies to be removably attached to the barbell shaft.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to exercise equipment and, more particularly, to a grip system with slidable grip assemblies for weightlifting equipment useful for improving a participant's fitness performance and improving workout efficiency.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Fitness enthusiasts, athletes, bodybuilders, firefighters, service members, dancers, physical therapy patients, and many others find themselves working out at home or at gyms and using a variety of equipment. They may follow an individualized plan developed by professional trainers or therapists, may be working as part of a team or with a partner, or may be following some general advice mined from a book or online resource. Many of these people develop or find themselves in a routine that includes bench presses and encounter the many ways to adjust their workout simply by adjusting where they grip the barbell.

Bench press programs are particularly useful for working one's pectorals, arms, and shoulders. Before beginning an exercise, a weightlifter sets up the barbell with the desired amount of weight at each end while the barbell is supported by a rack. Then, while lying on the bench so that their head and body are supported by the bench and their feet are on the floor, the weightlifter ideally positions their eyes and nose directly below the racked bar for optimal safety and performance. Gripping the bar at one of several desired grip locations, the weightlifter can safely unrack the bar and position it above their shoulders. Next, the weightlifter raises and lowers the barbell a set number of repetitions while controlling their breathing. When finished with a set, the weightlifter reracks the barbell before resting or leaving the bench. Whether starting at 50 lbs. or 250 lbs., a weightlifter should be able to significantly increase their strength, mass, tone, and muscle definition with regular practice.

One way a weightlifter varies their bench press workout is to lift the barbell from a variety of bench positions. When using a bench that is oriented parallel to the floor in a flat position, a weightlifter works their pectoralis major and minor chest muscles, front deltoids, and triceps. When using a bench that is declined such that the weightlifter's head is lower than their hips, the weightlifter's clavicular head or upper pectoralis, sternal head or lower pectoralis, and triceps brachii control their movement. When the bench is inclined so that a weightlifter's head is higher than their hips, the weightlifter's pectoralis major, anterior deltoid, and triceps brachii medial head are targeted. Finally, when sitting upright on a bench for a shoulder press, the weightlifter's anterior, lateral, and posterior deltoids are targeted along with the pectoralis major, trapezius, and triceps. To fully work all the chest, shoulder, and arm muscles, many serious weightlifters might complete multiple bench press sets at varying inclines or declines.

Another way a weightlifter varies their bench press workout is to adjust the width of their grip on the barbell. The width of a grip refers to how far apart a weightlifter spaces their hands while lifting, and the amount that their chest muscles, front deltoids, and triceps contribute to a movement depends on their grip width. Typically, it is easier to lift the bar with a wider grip than it is with a narrower grip, and the wider a weightlifter grips the bar, the greater the contribution of their chest and front deltoids will be. Conversely, the narrower a weightlifter grips the bar, the greater the contribution of their triceps will be. For example, if a weightlifter grips the bar so that their hands are between 1.5 and 2 times the width of their shoulders, their chest and shoulders might contribute 78% of the force necessary to lift the bar, while their triceps contribute 22%. If the weightlifter grips the bar so that their hands are directly above their shoulder or even closer together, their chest and shoulders might contribute 63% of the force necessary to lift the bar, while their triceps contribute 37%. To take advantage of the different benefits associated with grip width, many serious weightlifters will complete multiple bench press sets at multiple grip widths.

Because practicing the bench press at multiple inclines or declines and with a variety of grip widths takes a significant amount of time, the length of a weightlifter's workout session may become too long to be practical. This forces the weightlifter to choose one or two bench press variables to emphasize. It would be desirable to improve the bench press so that the benefits of multiple bench press variables can be achieved with fewer movements or adjustments. In particular, it would be desirable to have a grip that moves along the barbell during movement to engage more muscles during each repetition and set.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The grip system of the present invention includes slidable or movable grip assemblies that removably attach to the bar or shaft of a standard barbell as needed or are a standard component secured around the shaft of an improved barbell assembly. Two slidable grip assemblies preferably attach to the shaft of exercise equipment such as a barbell. For example, the slidable grip assemblies attach to the center or grip section of a barbell shaft, which is the portion of a barbell shaft between the removable weight plates secured at opposing ends of the barbell shaft. Each slidable grip assembly is configured to translate along the barbell shaft such that a weightlifter can reposition their hands relative to the barbell shaft as the weightlifter raises and lowers the barbell. To restrict or define translational motion of the slidable grip assemblies, the grip system preferably also includes medial and lateral stoppers that can be positioned at desired locations along the center or grip section of the shaft. To ensure a smooth or otherwise ideal surface on which the slidable grip assemblies can translate, the grip system preferably also includes one or more shaft sleeves. Preferably using clamps, each shaft sleeve can either removably attach to the shaft or be permanently positioned on the shaft, and each shaft sleeve preferably surrounds the shaft where located and remains in a fixed position relative to the shaft when in use. When the grip assemblies are positioned on the shaft, the shaft sleeve sits between the grip assembly and the shaft so that the grip assemblies translate along the shaft sleeves, which is particularly useful for shafts having a textured, knurled, or otherwise undesirable surface that would otherwise prevent the grip assemblies from sliding.

The slidable grip assembly of the grip system has a slide segment or inner sliding tubular section, a tubular base or middle tubular support section surrounding the slide segment, and a hand grip or outer grip tubular section at least partly attached to or surrounding the tubular base. Optionally, the sections can be combined or reduced to a single unit or two sections where a section serves multiple purposes. For example, the hand grip and tubular base can be combined. The grip assembly surrounds and defines a central bore that is sized to accommodate the shaft of the barbell and optionally a shaft sleeve if one is present. The grip assembly can further include a longitudinal slot disposed along the tubular base, which is preferably made of resilient material in this case, to provide an opening suitable for placing the grip assembly on and removing the grip assembly from the shaft of the barbell or other exercise equipment. In some embodiments, the grip assembly can further include multiple detachable or separable segments that form a complete grip assembly when connected. For multi-segment grip assemblies, the segments are preferably connected with fasteners. Fasteners can be hook and loop fasteners, hinges, snap assemblies, latches, wrap straps, locking assemblies, and other features configured to facilitate the segments being combined and removably attachable to a shaft. Optionally, grip assemblies without longitudinal slots can be slid onto a shaft from either end such as before standard sleeves or collars are placed on a barbell. Sliding the grip assemblies onto the shaft in such a manner allows them to be a more permanent or standard component of the exercise equipment or larger barbell assembly. Additional optional features of the slidable grip assembly include a wrist strap connected to the hand grip or tubular base, a wrist guard attached to the hand grip or tubular base or as an extension of the wrist strap, and a bearing or bushing assembly disposed along or comprising the slide segment.

To use a removable grip system with a barbell, for example, preferably two slidable grip assemblies are first secured on the barbell shaft. For each grip assembly, medial and lateral stoppers are optionally also positioned and secured on the shaft to define the grip assembly's movement boundaries. If needed, one or more shaft sleeves can be secured to the barbell shaft prior to securing the slidable grip assemblies. After the grip system components are placed on the barbell shaft, a weightlifter then positions himself relative to the barbell as desired and grips the hand grips of the grip assemblies such that each of the weightlifter's hands is holding one grip assembly. The weightlifter then lifts and lowers the barbell as desired, and each grip assembly translates back and forth along the barbell shaft between the medial and lateral stoppers. When finished with a bench press or other barbell session, the weightlifter optionally removes the grip assemblies, optional stoppers, and optional shaft sleeves from the barbell shaft. Lifting and lowering the barbell and weights while engaging with the grip assemblies allows the weightlifter to enhance their workout and optionally improve its efficiency.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is an illustration of the grip system of the present invention in use on a barbell assembly.

FIG. 2 is an illustration of a weightlifter interacting with the grip system of the present invention while using a barbell assembly that cooperates with a rack and bench.

FIG. 3 is a side view of a first embodiment of the grip assembly of the grip system of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is an end view of the first embodiment of the grip assembly of the grip system of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is an end view of a second embodiment of the grip assembly of the grip system of the present invention where the grip assembly includes an optional hinge and lock arrangement.

FIG. 6 is an end view of a third embodiment of the grip assembly of the grip system of the present invention where the grip assembly includes an optional fastener.

FIG. 7 is an end view of a fourth embodiment of the grip assembly of the grip system of the present invention where the grip assembly includes an optional ball bearing arrangement.

FIG. 8 is a flattened view of the fourth embodiment of the grip assembly of the grip system of the present invention where the ball bearings are secured in a first arrangement.

FIG. 9 is a flattened view of the fourth embodiment of the grip assembly of the grip system of the present invention where the ball bearings are secured in a second arrangement.

FIG. 10 is an end view of a fifth embodiment of the grip assembly of the grip system of the present invention where the grip assembly attaches to an optional first wrist strap assembly.

FIG. 11 is an end view of a sixth embodiment of the grip assembly of the grip system of the present invention where the grip assembly attaches to an optional second wrist strap assembly.

FIG. 12A is an illustration of the grip assemblies of the present invention shown in FIG. 1 as further used with a first embodiment of an optional shaft sleeve of the grip system of the present invention and a barbell assembly.

FIG. 12B is an end view of a first embodiment of the optional shaft sleeve of the present invention positioned on a barbell.

FIG. 12C is an illustration of the grip assemblies of the present invention shown in FIG. 1 as further used with a second embodiment of the optional shaft sleeve of the present invention and a barbell assembly.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a seventh and preferred embodiment of the grip assembly of the grip system of the present invention where the grip assembly has complimentary grip halves that secure together with snap fasteners.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the assembled grip assembly shown in FIG. 13 .

FIG. 15 is a side view of the assembled grip assembly shown in FIG. 13 .

FIG. 16 is a cutaway view of the assembled grip assembly shown in FIG. 13 as cut along the lines 16-16 shown in FIG. 15 .

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

FIGS. 1-16 illustrate several embodiments of the grip system 90 of the present invention with one or more slidable grip assemblies 100. The grip system 90 can be used with any exercise equipment having a shaft, which is also known as a bar in the weightlifting and exercise communities. FIGS. 1-2 illustrate the grip system 90 with grip assemblies 100 as used with a barbell assembly 10. As shown, grip system 90 has grip assemblies 100 that are removably, semi-permanently, or permanently slidably attached to the barbell assembly 10 having a shaft 15, sleeves 35, medial plate collars 30, lateral plate collars 25, and removable weight plates 20. Barbell assemblies are well known in the art of weightlifting practice and design and optionally cooperate with a rack 30, bench 45, and bench support 45, as is also well known in the art. FIGS. 3-7 illustrate several embodiments of the grip assembly 100 of the grip system 90, including several embodiments of the grip assembly's 100 slide segment or inner sliding tubular section 140, tubular base or middle tubular support section 110, hand grip or outer tubular section 130, optional longitudinal access slot 120, and optional hinge 115 and lock 150. FIGS. 8-9 illustrate variations of an embodiment of the grip assembly 100 where bearings 147 are used, showing optional bearing configurations, and FIGS. 10-11 illustrate embodiments of the grip assembly 100 that include an optional wrist strap assembly 200 and an optional wrist guard 230. FIGS. 12A-12C illustrate a cooperating shaft sleeve 300 of the grip system 90 that can be used to facilitate translation of the grip assemblies 100 when the surface of a barbell shaft 15 does not readily support a sliding grip assembly 100. FIGS. 13-16 illustrate an additional embodiment of the grip assembly 100 having complimentary sections or halves that are secured together with snap fasteners.

As shown in FIGS. 1-2 , grip system 90 and grip assemblies 100 cooperate with barbell assemblies 10 that have at least a shaft 15. Shaft 15 preferably has end sleeves 35 positioned at opposing ends of shaft 15 on which weight plates 20 are secured between medial collars 30 and lateral collars 25. Preferably, weight plates 20 are removable so that a weightlifter using the barbell assembly 10 can adjust the amount of weight they intend to lift. Grip assemblies 100 can be permanently or semi-permanently slidable attached around the barbell shaft 15 as shown in FIG. 1 , or they can be removably attached around barbell shaft 15 as shown in FIG. 2 . Preferably, each grip assembly 100 is slidably attached around the barbell shaft 15 at a position between a medial stopper 50 and lateral stopper 55. Medial and lateral stoppers 50 and 55 can be removable collars that are well known in the art and are preferably positioned such that each medial stopper restricts movement of the grip assemblies 100 as they translate toward the center of the barbell shaft 15 and each lateral stopper 55 restricts movement of the grip assemblies 100 as they translate away from the center of the barbell shaft 15. More preferably, each grip assembly 100 is positioned along barbell shaft 15 such that it can be positioned within the range of grip widths of the weightlifter 50 using the grip assemblies 100, which is generally somewhere between the rack supports (not labelled) when the weightlifter 50 is using a rack 30 and bench 40 as shown in FIG. 2 .

As shown in FIG. 3 , each grip assembly 100 of the grip system 90 has an overall tubular shape with a length L, a first end 113, a second end 114, and optional first and second edges 122, 124 that define a longitudinal slot 120. As shown in FIGS. 4-7 , each grip assembly 100 has an overall outer diameter D1 and further includes a slide segment 140 having an outer surface 140 b, a tubular base 110 having an inner surface 110 a and outer surface 110 b where the tubular base 110 surrounds the slide segment 140, and a hand grip 130 having an inner surface 130 a and outer surface 130 b where the hand grip 130 attaches at least partly to or surrounds the tubular base 110. The tubular base 110 and slide segment 140 define a central bore, which is the space surrounded by the inner surface 140 a of the slide segment 140. Central bore 190 has a diameter D2 in the preferred embodiment. If the shaft on which the grip assembly 100 will be used has a noncircular or irregular shape, however, central bore 190 can be configured with a complementary size and shape. For example, if the cross section of shaft 15 is hexagonal, central bore 190 should also be hexagonal. As used herein, the slide segment 140 is sometimes referred to as the inner sliding tubular section or inner tubular section, the tubular base 110 is sometimes referred to as the middle tubular support section, and the hand grip 130 is sometimes referred to as the outer grip tubular section.

Preferably, for each grip assembly, the hand grip or outer tubular grip section 130 is made of one or more materials, features, or components that cooperate enhance a weightlifter's grip when using the grip assemblies 100. Tubular base or middle tubular grip section 110 is preferably made of materials or components that increase the structural integrity of grip assemblies 100. Slide segment or inner tubular section 140 is preferably made of materials or configured of features or components that reduce friction between its inner surface 140 a and the barbell shaft 15. For example, slide segment 140 can be made of a friction-reducing material, it can have a friction-reducing coating, or it can include a plurality of bearings or bushings that reduce friction as discussed below with respect to FIGS. 7-9 . Preferably the hand grip 130, tubular base 110, and slide segment 140 are arranged concentrically, the inner surface 130 a of hand grip 130 permanently attaches to, at least partly, the outer surface 110 b of tubular base 110, and the inner surface 110 a of tubular base 110 permanently attaches to the outer surface 140 b of slide segment 130 b. Optionally, however, the hand grip 130, tubular base 110, and slide segment 140 can be combined or reduced, provided a weightlifter can grip the outer surface of the overall grip assembly and provided the inner surface of the overall grip assembly 100 facilitates its translation along the barbell shaft 15. In some embodiments, hand grip 130 and tubular base 110 are combined into one component or integrally attached.

The overall size and shape of each grip assembly 100 has a length L that is at least long enough to accommodate the width of a weightlifter's hand when gripping the grip assembly 100. The inner diameter D2 of the grip assembly 100 is large enough to fit a barbell shaft 15, or barbell shaft 15 and shaft sleeve 300 where a shaft sleeve 300 is used, within the central bore 190 of the grip assembly 100, and the overall outer diameter D1 is small enough for a weightlifter to securely hold the grip assembly 100 with their hand. The central bore 190 of the grip assembly 100 is shaped and sized to accommodate the diameter of the barbell shaft 15 and optionally can be expanded or adjusted to accommodate barbell shafts 15 of different diameters or barbell shafts 15 and cooperating shaft sleeves 300.

In some embodiments, the grip system 90 includes grip assemblies 100 that removably attach to the barbell shaft. FIGS. 4-7 illustrate a removably attachable grip assembly having a tubular base 110 that defines a longitudinal slot 120 having a width W. The longitudinal slot 120 extends through the combined and attached hand grip 140, tubular base 110, and slide segment 140 to central bore 190. Slot 120 allows a weightlifter to place the grip assembly 100 around the barbell shaft 15 without having to remove weight plates 20, stoppers, collars, or other features. Slot 120 will vary in its width W depending on other features of the grip assembly 100 such as the presence or absence of a fastener such as a hinge 115 and a lock or locking assembly 150 and whether grip assembly 100 is resilient such that slot 120 can be stretched wider when placing over shaft 15 and the return to its shape and size once shaft 15 is disposed within central bore 190. Preferably, for this embodiment, tubular base 110 is made of resilient material.

In some embodiments, grip assembly 100 may be divided into multiple sections that are partly connected or completely detachable. These embodiments employ fasteners to hold the sections together when positioned on a shaft 15. Fasteners may be latches, hinges, snap assemblies, hook and loop fasteners, compression devices, adhesive devices, locking assemblies, wrap straps, or other mechanisms of removably securing multiple components together. Where grip assembly 100 comprises two sections that connect together to form a complete grip assembly 100, preferably it comprises complimentary first and second slide segments 131, 132 having inner surfaces 131 a, 132 a and outer surfaces 131 b, 132 b, complimentary first and second tubular bases 111, 112 having inner surfaces 111 a, 112 a and outer surfaces 111 b, 112 b, and complimentary hand grips 141, 142 having inner surfaces 141 a, 142 a and outer surfaces 141 b, 142 b, all of which are connected and positioned relative to one another as described above. The complimentary tubular base sections 111, 112 further include complimentary first edges 123, 125 and complimentary second edges 122, 124, as shown in FIG. 5 . When assembled into a complete grip assembly 100, first edge 123 of first tubular base 111 is positioned adjacent to or connected to first edge 125 of second tubular base 112. Likewise, second edge 122 of first tubular base 111 is positioned adjacent to or connected to second edge of second tubular base 112. Fasteners hold the tubular base sections 111, 112 together along with their attached slide segments 131, 132 and hand grips 141, 142.

FIG. 5 illustrates a multi-segment embodiment of grip assembly 100 that employs a hinge 115 and an optional but preferable lock 150. Hinge 115 can be any narrow tubular section, attachment point, or fastener along the circumference of grip assembly 100 and preferably extends along the length of the grip assembly 100 as shown in FIG. 5 . Where hinge 115 is present, preferably grip assembly 100 comprises complimentary first and second slide segments 131, 132 having inner surfaces 131 a, 132 a and outer surfaces 131 b, 132 b, complimentary first and second tubular bases 111, 112 having inner surfaces 111 a, 112 a and outer surfaces 111 b, 112 b, and complimentary hand grips 141, 142 having inner surfaces 141 a, 142 a and outer surfaces 141 b, 142 b. Complimentary tubular bases 111, 112 are connected at their respective first edges 123, 125 by hinge 115. Hinge 115 preferably facilitates a pivotal relationship between complimentary tubular bases 111, 112 such that grip assembly 100 can pivot to an open position when being placed on a barbell shaft 15 and pivot to a closed position when ready for use and as used during weightlifting. Preferably, a locking assembly or lock 150 secures the complementary tubular base sections 111, 112 of grip assembly 100 in a closed position when positioned the barbell shaft 15. Grip assembly 100 is considered closed when the second edges 122, 124 of respective complimentary tubular bases 111, 112 are adjacent to another. Locking assembly 150 can be positioned near hinge 115 as shown on FIG. 4 , near slot 120 or adjacent second edges 122, 124 of tubular bases 111, 112, or at another location as long as it secures the grip assembly 100 in a closed position. Additionally, more than one locking assembly 150 can be used. Locking assemblies 150 can be cooperating tabs and notches, latches and catches, hooks and eyes, hook and loop fasteners, or other known locking assemblies. Locking assemblies 150 can be incorporated on grip assembly 100 where no hinge 115 is present as well. FIG. 6 illustrates an embodiment of grip assembly without a hinge 115 and with a locking assembly where hand grip 130 includes an extension 130 c with cooperating hook and loop fastener components 160.

Optionally, grip assemblies 100 can cooperate with shafts 15 without incorporating slots 120 or multiple sections and fasteners. For such embodiments, the grip assembly 100 can be slid onto the barbell shaft 15 from either end before standard sleeves 35 and collars 25, 30 are placed on the barbell shaft 15 so that each grip assembly 100 is a permanent or semi-permanent standard component of the larger barbell assembly 10 or exercise equipment.

FIGS. 10 and 11 illustrate additional optional features of the grip assembly 100 including a cooperating wrist strap assembly 200 connected to tubular base 110 or tubular bases and an optional wrist guard 230. As shown, wrist strap assembly 200 can have a wrist extension 205 with an end 205 a such as a hook or carabiner that removably attaches to grip assembly 100 such as by connecting to an extension 110 c of tubular base 110, as shown in FIG. 10 . Alternatively, wrist strap assembly can be integral with or attached directly and permanently to grip assembly 100 such as be wrapping around an extension 110 c of tubular base 110, as shown in FIG. 11 . Preferably, wrist assembly 100 includes an inner sleeve 220 that slips around a weightlifter's wrist and an outer band 210 having a first end 210 a and second end 210 b. Outer band 210 further includes an attachment surface 210 c that facilitates adjustment and locking of the wrist arrangement in place. As shown in FIGS. 10 and 11 , second end of outer band 210 b can fixedly attach to a buckle or loop 214, and first end of outer band 210 a can adjustably connect to or slide through the same buckle or loop 214 so that it folds over and engages attachment surface 210 c. Attachment surface 210 can be or can include anything that discourages outer band first end 210 a from excessive movement such as hook and loop fastener components or additional buckle components. Additional features can be included with wrist strap arrangement 200 include a rigid wrist guard 230 that preferably is secured along extension 110 c of grip assembly 100 as shown in FIG. 11 or along wrist strap extension 205 as shown in FIG. 10 . Wrist guard 230 is preferably countered to encourage a weightlifter to hold their hands in a neutral or ideal position. Another additional feature can be a grip bar 128 that extends along the length of and is secured within the first end 122 of grip assembly 100. Using grip bar 128, a weightlifter can secure the wrist strap attachments 200 on their wrists before placing the grip arrangements 100 on the barbell shaft 15. The weightlifter can then tuck the first ends 122 of grip assemblies 100 between the barbell shaft 15 and their palms when lifting to further secure the grip assembly 100 in place.

FIGS. 6-9 illustrate an embodiment of grip assembly 100 that uses a bearing assembly disposed along or comprising slide segment 140. For example, multiple bearings 147 can be arranged in races 145 to promote translation of the grip assembly 100 along barbell shaft 15. Preferably, the bearings are selected and arranged to promote longitudinal motion and to restrict rotation. FIG. 8 illustrates ball bearings 147 arranged around in a ring formation at regular intervals, and FIG. 9 illustrates a more preferred arrangement of roller bearings 147 linearly arranged at regular intervals. In addition to the configurations illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 9 , bearings can be any other type of bearing that promotes translation and reduces friction. Additionally, bearings can be made of metals, ceramics, or plastics and can have different structures including, for example, bushings, sleeve bearings, and journal bearings.

FIGS. 13-16 illustrate the preferred embodiment of grip assembly 100 where two tubular base sections 111, 112 attach to one another using a plurality of cooperating male snap attachment components 410 and female snap attachment components 430. As shown, first tubular base section 111 includes two annular flanges 117 a and four support flanges 117 b both integral with tubular base section 111. Likewise, second tubular base section 112 includes two annular flanges 118 a and four support flanges 118 b both integral with tubular base section 112. Annular flanges 117 a and 118 a are positioned near the first ends 113 a, 113 b and second ends 114 a, 114 b of the first and second tubular base sections 111, 112 providing separation between where the fasteners are positioned on tubular base sections 111, 112 and the area where a user would hold tubular base sections 111, 112 when they are connected. Each of the four support flanges 117 b on the first tubular base 111 houses a set of male snap attachment components 410. Each support flange 117 b defines a flange bore 117 c and houses the snap stud 412, which is fastened to the support flange 117 b with a screw 416 and threaded insert 414 that is fixed within the flange bore 117 c. Each of the four flanges 118 b on the second tubular base 112 defines a flange bore 118 c, a first notch 118 d, and a second notch 118 d. Each of the four flanges 118 b on the second tubular base 112 also houses a set of female snap attachment components 430. Housed within the first notch of each support flange 118 b is a snap socket 432, which is secured to the support flange 118 b with a low profile screw 434 that extends through the flange bore 118 b and is secured by a nut 436 positioned in the second notch 118 d. At each support flange 117 b, 118 b, the snap stud 412 and snap socket 432 cooperate to removably attach the first tubular base section 111 to the second tubular base section 112. As shown, this embodiment further includes slide segments 141, 142 each of which houses regularly spaced ball bearings 147 to facilitate translational movement along shaft 15. Preferably, slide segments 141, 142 and secured to first and second tubular bases 117, 118 respectively with screws or other fasteners (not shown). When first and second tubular bases 117, 118 are attached, central bore 190 is formed and surrounded by slide segments 141, 142.

To limit the translational motion of the grip assemblies 100 when being used on a barbell shaft 15, grip system 90 preferably includes medial stoppers 50 and lateral stoppers 55 that can be placed at desired positions on the barbell shaft 15. Medial stoppers 50 and lateral stoppers 55 can be any type of barrier that attaches around a shaft including known barbell clips and removable collars. For example, zinc-plated steel two-piece clamping shaft collars are suitable for medial and lateral stoppers 50, 55. Medial stoppers 50 and lateral stoppers 55 are preferably positioned such that each medial stopper 50 restricts movement of the grip assemblies 100 as they translate toward the center of the barbell shaft 15 and each lateral stopper 55 restricts movement of the grip assemblies 100 as they translate away from the center of the barbell shaft 15. Where stoppers 50, 55 are removably attached to shaft 15, they can be easily moved to accommodate different ranges of motion as needed or desired.

For increased ability to translate along the barbell shaft 15, especially for barbell shafts with knurling, r texture, or a nonuniformly shaped or irregular cross-section, an optional shaft sleeve 300 can be secured in a fixed position around and relative to shaft 15 as shown in FIGS. 12A and 12B. Preferably, shaft sleeve 300 is made of 20-gauge stainless steel and has a diameter sufficient to fit around barbell shaft and long enough to extend along the length of the barbell shaft 15. More preferably, shaft sleeve 300 has a diameter of 29 mm and is 48 inches long. Where shaft 15 has a noncircular or irregular cross section, shaft sleeve 300 can define a noncircular or irregular bore or inner surface that cooperates with the shape of shaft 15. Shaft sleeve 300 also preferably is comprised of two complimentary lengthwise halves 302, 304 that combine to form shaft sleeve 300 when placed together as shown in FIG. 12B. When assembled, shaft sleeve 300 has a bore or inner surface that complements the size and shape of shaft 15. Shaft sleeve 300 or shaft sleeve halves 302, 304 are secured together and to the barbell shaft with fasteners using locks, compression, adhesive, wraps, or other types of fasteners for connecting parts provided shaft sleeve 300 or shaft sleeve halves 302, 304 can be secured such that they remain in a fixed position relative to shaft 15 as grip assemblies 100 translate. Preferably, shaft sleeve halves 302, 304 are secured with clamps 310 positioned along or at opposing ends of shaft sleeve 300 and shaft 15. Clamps 310 can be positioned near stoppers 50, 55, and stoppers can be placed around shaft sleeve 300 where appropriate as shown in FIGS. 12A and 12C. Preferably shaft sleeve 300, or shaft sleeve halves 302, 304, has an outer surface 302 a, 304 a that is smooth and an inner surface 302 b, 304 b that cooperates with the surface of barbell shaft 15. Inner surface 302 b, 304 b optionally can include a lining or applied surface texture that enhances its connection with barbell shaft 15 when fastened on barbell shaft 15 such that rotational and translational movement is eliminated or minimized when the grip system 90 is being used. For example, the lining or applied surface texture may facilitate a secure fit with the knurling along shaft 15. Shaft sleeve 300 can be a continuous singular long sleeve as shown in FIG. 12A or it can be split into multiple sleeves positioned adjacent to one another or at a spaced distance as shown in FIG. 12C.

To use grip system 90 having removably attachable grip assemblies 100 with a barbell assembly 10, for example, grip assemblies 100 are first secured on the barbell shaft 15. Before attaching grip assemblies 100 or once they are secured, medial and lateral stoppers 50 and 55 are optionally positioned and secured on shaft 15 to define the boundaries from movement of the grip assemblies 100. Optionally, for shafts 15 with texture or knurling, one or more shaft sleeves 300 or shaft sleeve halves 302, 304, are positioned and secured on shaft 15 where grip assemblies 100 will translate. Once the grip system 90 components are positioned and secured, a weightlifter 50 then sits, stands, or reclines relative to the barbell assembly 10 and shaft 15 as desired and holds the hand grips 130 of the grip assemblies 100 such that each of the weightlifter's hands is griping one hand grip 130 and grip assembly 100. The weightlifter then lifts and lowers shaft 15 as desired, and the grip assemblies 100 translate between the medial and lateral stoppers 50, 55. When finished with a bench press or other barbell session, the weightlifter 50 optionally removes the grip assemblies 100, optional stoppers 50, 55, and optional sleeves 300 from shaft 15. Lifting and lowering the shaft 15 and weight plates 20 while engaging with grip assemblies 100 allows the weightlifter to enhance their workout and optionally improve its efficiency.

While there has been illustrated and described what is at present considered to be the preferred embodiment of the present invention, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the true scope of the invention disclosed, but that the invention will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the claims. 

I claim:
 1. A grip system for use with exercise equipment having a shaft, the grip system comprising a slidable grip assembly, wherein the grip assembly defines a central bore configured to fit around the exercise equipment shaft and comprises: a) a tubular base having a first end, a second end, an inner surface, and an outer surface, wherein the grip assembly central bore extends from the first end of the tubular base to the second end of the tubular base and is at least partly surrounded by the inner surface of the tubular base; b) a slide segment disposed within the central bore of the grip assembly and attached to the inner surface of the tubular base, wherein the slide segment is configured to facilitate translation of the tubular base along the shaft of the exercise equipment; and c) a hand grip at least partly attached to the outer surface of the tubular base.
 2. The grip system of claim 1 further comprising a medial stopper configured to attach to the shaft of the exercise equipment adjacent a first end of the grip assembly and in a fixed position relative to the shaft of the exercise equipment.
 3. The grip system of claim 2 further comprising a lateral stopper configured to attach to the shaft of the exercise equipment adjacent a second end of the grip assembly and in a fixed position relative to the shaft of the exercise equipment.
 4. The grip system of claim 1 further comprising a shaft sleeve configured to attach around the exercise equipment shaft in a fixed position relative to the exercise equipment and positioned to cooperate with the slide segment of the grip assembly.
 5. The grip system of claim 3 further comprising a shaft sleeve configured to attach around the exercise equipment shaft in a fixed position relative to the exercise equipment and positioned to cooperate with the slide segment of the grip assembly.
 6. The grip system of claim 1 wherein the slide segment of the grip assembly comprises a friction-reducing material positioned to encourage lateral translation along the shaft.
 7. The grip system of claim 1 wherein the slide segment of the grip assembly comprises a plurality of bearings positioned to encourage lateral translation along the shaft.
 8. The grip system of claim 1 wherein the tubular base of the grip assembly comprises a resilient material and defines a slot extending from the first end of the tubular base to the second end of the tubular base.
 9. The grip system of claim 1 wherein the hand grip of the grip assembly is integral with the tubular base of the grip assembly.
 10. The grip system of claim 1 wherein the tubular base of the grip assembly further comprises: a) a first tubular base section having an inner surface, an outer surface, a first edge, and a second edge; b) a second tubular base section having an inner surface, an outer surface, a first edge, and a second edge; and c) a first fastener for attaching the first edge of the first tubular base section to the first edge of the second tubular base section, wherein the inner surfaces of the first and second tubular base sections surround the central bore of the grip assembly when the second edge of the second tubular base section is positioned near the second edge of the first tubular base section.
 11. The grip system of claim 10 wherein the slide segment of the grip assembly further comprises: a) a first slide segment section attached to the inner surface of the first tubular base section; and b) a second slide segment section attached to the inner surface of the second tubular base section.
 12. The grip system of claim 10 wherein the first tubular base section of the grip assembly pivotally attaches at the first edge of the first tubular base section to the second tubular base section of the grip assembly at the first edge of the second tubular base section.
 13. The grip system of claim 12 wherein the grip assembly further comprises a hinge connected to the first edge of the first tubular base section and the first edge of the second tubular section.
 14. The grip system of claim 10 wherein the grip assembly further comprises a second fastener for attaching the second edge of the first tubular base section to the second edge of the second tubular base section.
 15. The grip system of claim 14 wherein the second fastener of the grip assembly comprises a lock assembly.
 16. The grip system of claim 14 wherein the first and second fasteners of the grip assembly comprise snap fasteners.
 17. A slidable grip system for use with exercise equipment having a shaft, the grip system comprising: a) a grip assembly, wherein the grip assembly defines a central bore configured to fit around the exercise equipment shaft and comprises: i) a tubular base having a first end, a second end, an inner surface and an outer surface, wherein the grip assembly central bore extends from the first end of the tubular base to the second end of the tubular base and is at least partly surrounded by the inner surface of the tubular base; and ii) a slide segment disposed within the central bore of the grip assembly and attached to the inner surface of the tubular base, wherein the slide segment is configured to facilitate translation of the tubular base along the shaft of the exercise equipment; and b) a medial stopper configured to attach to the shaft of the exercise equipment adjacent a first end of the grip assembly and in a fixed position relative to the shaft of the exercise equipment; and c) a lateral stopper configured to attach to the shaft of the exercise equipment adjacent a second end of the grip assembly and in a fixed position relative to the shaft of the exercise equipment.
 18. The grip system of claim 17 further comprising a shaft sleeve configured to attach around the exercise equipment shaft in a fixed position relative to the exercise equipment and positioned to cooperate with the slide segment of the grip assembly.
 19. The grip system of claim 18 wherein the slide segment of the grip assembly comprises a friction-reducing material positioned to encourage lateral translation along the shaft.
 20. The grip system of claim 18 wherein the slide segment of the grip assembly comprises a plurality of bearings positioned to encourage lateral translation along the shaft. 